ITCS Memo# 2617 - Ill River Bridges

To: RIAC
From: IRCA Chairman
Date: 12/10/07
Subject: Ill River Bridges
ITCS Memo # 2617

As of 1500, December 10, status of the Florence Highway Drawbridge, mile 56.0 and the Beardstown Railroad Drawbridge, mile 88.8 is as follows:

Florence: Unable to open due to 1/2" to 3/4" ice accumulation on bridge. Drawtender tried lifting the bridge on Sunday and raised it approximately 1 foot before the bridge slammed back down breaking a restraining cable in the process.

Beardstown: Railroad used auxiliary power to try and lift the bridge. Motors engaged and then the gears started to smoke after 15 seconds, but were unable to lift bridge due to 1/2" to 3/4" ice accumulation on superstructure. Railroad personnel continue to de-ice with propane burners.

Both bridges are to notify the Coast Guard once they are able to open. Reiterated the urgency on getting bridges open to navigation.